Mercy University Top Questions

What should every freshman at your school know before they start?

Nicole

Knowing what I know now about myself as a soon-to-be college graduate, I would most likely tell my high school self to work hard, get involved and try new things. However, there really is not too much I would go back and change. I do not regret anything I have done or anything I have accomplished in these past couple of years. I believe things happen for reasons and mistakes occur to help us learn from them. So, from all such mistakes I may have made, they all sincerely helped me become the woman I am today and utterly change all previous preceptions I had on life. I would simply just tell myself to continue to work hard, follow my dreams and never give up. Times get hard, but it is truly the difficult times that determine who we are and what we are to become.

Eleanor

I would encourage myself to socialize more because life is not just about working on one's goals and aims, it's about who you know and who you can reach out to at some point in time. You may need help from others and same applies to them. Know who you are, where you want to be in the next few years and why you want to be there. Hardwork Pays!

Ebony

I did not give myself a chance to become a senior. I was Awarded to the state of New York and even though I was giving the same opportunities as children living with their parents, I allowed other people to define who I was. if I could go back in time I would tell my self.. "Ebony, dispite the fact you are left in this system all alone, you must make the best of it". "Ebony you have big dreams of becoming a powerful lawyer and active social worker. inorder for you to get there you must first take your time and slow down. Do not listen to the girls and case workers at the agency and group home, allow them to be your motivation for success". The last thing I would say to myself is , "Ebony keep in mind, if you work hard now you will enjoy great benefits later and before completion of college companies would offer you positions".

Brandon

If i could go back and tell myself as a high school student what to expect and be ready for in college, I would start off by saying come prepared day 1. In high school things are very laid back and you can get away with alot more. In college, you need to take it serious from day one because more than likely they will start teaching material by day 2, if not day 1! The next thing i would tell myself is although the schedule is way less time spent in school, do not miss days just because! Attendance in college is so important not only so you do not hit your absence limit, but also so you stay on top of the material. If you have a class two days a week and you miss a day, you probably missed out on alot of valuble information! The final thing i would tell myself is to always take good notes and study as often as possibly! You are alot more responsible for you own education in college and it is the link to your future. Not to mention you only get one shot, so make it count!

Debbie Ann

Debbie-Ann, college life can best be described in three words : A different world. You will enter this world with little supervision and no one to hold your hand so you must be your own advisor and remind yourself of why you came to college, to succeed. Life doesn't have a do over button and everyday counts so please manage your time wisely and get great grades because if you don't graduate you will be doing it all over again. College life will expose you to alcohol and parties which will be your biggest downfall. My best advice to you would be to stay away. I encourage you to find a balance between studying and having fun but take the time to reflect on all the things you love now and seek out those that have the same interests. Lastly, remember to take your Bible. Let this be your guide- in all things remember that God has always answered your prayers and he will your best friend. You will reach a bump in the road so I want you to look this word up and no matter what remember it: Tenacity.

James

I think every student should at least know their way around campus and come with an open mind whether about socializing and meeting new people or joining different clubs and benefit organizations.

Monica

If I could go back in time and give advice to myself as a high school senior I would impress upon my self the importance of organizational skills, study habits and communication with professors/teachers. Organizational skills are of the utmost importance when it comes to class deadlines as it pertains to assignments, projects, financial aid, scholarships, and registration. If deadlines are missed it could have costly results. Organization is imperative maintain for final papers and assignments that require several steps for completion. When one maintains exceptional organizational skills it will prevent the student from having to double back. Study habits are also essential to success in school. During high school years students tend to "wing it" however, if good study habits are not learned during school aged years it will be hard to develop, not impossible, during college years. If these skills are taken seriously during high school these needed skill will already be in line for the college years. Communication with professors are also key when it comes to understanding the teachers expectations and completion of assignments. Open communication between student and professor is always for the benefit of the student.

Natasha

I would tell myself to be more attentive, not everything is what it seems. I would tell myself that I will make mistakes and to not beat myself up over them because they are necessary for growth. I would tell myself that at the first hint that there is something wrong with a college go somewhere else. Instincts never lie and if you smell a fish it's somewhere in the room. Stay out of state, learn different cultures and lifestyles, and never settle for the mundane. Most importantly not to rush and try to do everything at all at once, relax and enjoy.

Ruth

If I could go back one year and advise myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself several things. Education is important, and a huge part of successful learning is being ready to face whatever comes to you. Try your hardest to achieve straight A’s in your college courses that you’re taking this year. If you do, by the end of freshman year, you will have a 4.0 GPA! Be extra organized as you start college because it’s too easy to forget assignment and tests that you need to study for. Most of all, remember the finish line. You’re doing this because you have dreams and aspirations and you care about the future. There will be ups and downs in school, but don’t be discouraged. When you’re older, you'll look back and be thankful that you were fortunate enough to continue your education. Remember that knowledge is something that no one can ever take away from you. Your degree will help you find a career that you love, and you will be able to live a comfortable, happy, content, and satisfied life. Keep Going! It’ll all be worth it.

lindsey

Keep God first, he won't let you down! Do more in high school and make an effort to be involved, don't just sit on the sidelines. College is all about being active, and you will regret it if you don't make an effort to fit in! Don't give into peer pressure, your friends will like you for who you are and the other people won't matter in the long run. Your grades do matter. Try hard in school so that you can go straight into a unniversity and not a junior college. Learn to save money, and save for school, loans will add up! Listen to your parents, they're on your side more than you think.

Maxine

If I could travel time I would pack up my delorean and tell my past self to cut the nonsense. College is a process. It’s going to take a number of events to achieve just one step. Studying comes before socializing. You will have plenty of opportunities to have fun after you graduate. Make sure you're prepared to take your sat because no college is going to want someone who is a slacker. When you get to college you will fend for yourself. Nothing is handed to you on a silver platter. If you want something get it and do it early too. Don't let anyone get in the way of your main priority and that is yourself. There are plenty of boys to go gaga for later down the road and you can make friends anytime. Remember discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishment.

Eric

Transitioning into my first year of college was very difficult for me. There are some ways that I would change if I had the chance to. Not knowing what campus life was like, I was unprepared for college. If given a chance to return to my senior year in high school and give myself advice, I would prepare myself more efficiently. First, I would have been more financially balanced. I would have saved most of my money earned from working during my senior year and in the summer instead of spending my money on unnecessary items. I also would have applied for more online scholarships to help pay for my freshman semesters. Second, my grades for my senior year of high school would have been better in order to raise my grade point average coming into college. Maybe if i registered for summer courses i would have been a little ahead in college. Last, I would have prioritized for college better. A set time schedule would have been effective. My class schedule would revolve around times I have free to study and get enough rest for the next class or any other school activity I might be involved in.

Oscar

I will explain, how my past choices and strong family values and support have lead me into making better choices for my future. I suffered the disappointment of not getting into any of the choices for High School I applied for. I remember the feeling I had when I opened the first letter and saw that I was not accepted. I was upset but still had hope that one of the other choices I applied for would accept me. My mother cradled me in her arms and assured me that it was going to be okay. With supreme effort and support of my family, I was accepted to St. Raymond’s. I was extremely grateful to St. Raymond’s for accepting me. My dream school was All Hallows High School, and with hard work and perseverance I was accepted into the school in my sophomore year. I have learned so much from my parents about life and what I must do in order to get where I'm today. I am very fortunate to have so much support from my family and mentor to do better. I thank you for taking the time to read my essay.

Francine

I have often thought about what I would do if I could go back to high school knowing what I know now. I would tell myself that there is nothing to be afraid of and that I am a strong person. I would be able to follow through on my college applications and complete the admissions process instead of running away and not going to college. I would have left my familiar surroundings behind and went away to school. I certainly would not have taken ten years off to party and hang out with friends. I also would have encouraged my friends to go to school too. Fear is something that causes people to do things they are used to doing instead of trying new things. Fear crippled me emotionally for a little while but I am no longer afraid. I am a strong independent woman now.

henri

As a senior in high school, my mail box filled with college brochures that attempted to familiarize me with each campus and the various opportunities their institution had to offer. Now, as a college student, I realize just how little these colorful publications indicated what was awaiting me this fall. I have found that college is not just an “institute of higher learning but rather, an experience. The college experience is defined by once in a lifetime opportunities. Opportunities on the college campus range from sports and religious groups, to a unique social atmosphere, and recently discovered freedom. Truly, college offers something for everyone. Every imaginable type of club exists on campus. Religious groups of all denominations, as well as a variety of athletic events for both fun and competition can also be found. At the end it has valued me by seeing that growing as an individual has helped me adjust to the unique system of living college boasts. This is the only time my life where am assigned to a complete strangers, and told me make an eleven by eleven room our “home” for the next nine months. And as well opening the door to better career opportunities

Kimberly

Ive Gained many new friends and a new perspective on life. It has been valuable because it gives me a break from home, gives me time to grow up on my own.

Chris

My college experience has given me a new appreciation for higher learning and a second chance towards teaching. I have been out of school for twenty two years but have returned to finish my Bachelor's degree. I want to complete my Master's in 2012 then move forward to a Ph.D. My professional career has spanned over twenty one years in the radio / broadcast industry and I have been blessed to learn from some of the best. I would love to share this knowledge one day by teaching radio broadcasting in the New York area. If I didn't have a great teacher when I attended Iona, I wouldn't have gotten as far. It's my job to do the same for students on day. As a returning adult, you quickly realize the value not just in the educational process but the journey and quest for knowledge and new experiences. The value of interacting with peers, professors and other professionals is priceless to say the least. This scholarship can help me to move forward and bring others with me as I complete a life long goal.

Joseph

I have taken a lot out of my college experience for one thing is a bigger ego and more pride. I am also getting ready for a career that interests me and that I am excited to be in. Attendance is of the must importance seeming that you can not learn if you are not present to learn. My GPA is 3.7 and I can honestly say it took attendance, experience as well as a lot of hard work. I have been attending college for the last two years and it has changed my life for the better. I feel that I can accomplished anything and that I am ready to do so as well. Thank you for this opportunity Joseph Fox

T'Keyah

The experience I've gotten from my school is like no other. I have gotten to see all the clubs and oppurtunity that's out there. I also have met new people and made new friendships. The reason it has been vaulable to attend Mercy College is because I have learned new things. Another reason is because I have come in contact with people that will probably be in my life for a long time. It is also vaulable because meeting new people opens more doors and more things to offer for the better in my future.

Dorothy

You have to definitely stay at the top of your game. You slip and it won't be easy to get back up but you will eventually get back up. Its like a lesson learned before really living in the life of an adult. Its an eye opener. You learn alot about yourself while in college.

Brittany

There are so many wonderful things that I have been able to take out of my college experience. In only my first year at Mercy College I have made friends that I will never lose and have learned life lessons that I will never forget. Being a dorming student my experiences go farther that those that simply attend the college. I have been able to experience life on my own and the joy of meeting the new people around me. My professors at Mercy have helped me to get closer to the stars that I wish to reach and have pushed me to be the best that I can be in the field of study that I am striving to complete. My experience at Mercy College is more valuable to me then anything someone can own. I would not give anything to lose this experience nor would I change anyhing about it. It would have to be one of the wisest decisions of my life and I thank God and my mother every day for allowing me to have and enjoy the experience.

Ashley

I am currently enrolled in my second year of college at SUNY Albany. Last year, I attended Hudson Valley Community College. Even though it has only been one year, college to me has been worth the while. In my first and only year of college, I have made many friends and learned quite a bit about my major already. I have wanted to be a veterinarian, or help animals in some way since I can even remember. Being enrolled in the Biology program has made me confirm that I still want to do so. I have learned so much in Biology, and I wouldn't take any of my knowledge away for anything. In the Biology program, I have met so many people that are so diverse, and that I am able to call my friends. Basically, the most important thing that I have gotten out of my college experience is the knowledge that I want to stick with exactly what I have planned to do my whole life. My friends, and teachers have helped me through my first year, and have showed me what a wonderful thing it is to be able to study Biology and help animals.

Carlen

I applied to Mercy College not only because it was the school my mom graduated from but because it offered many things I needed. The professors were exceptional, if I received a low grade on a paper they would ask me what I needed help with and they would inform me of the hours and days they were available to tutor. My classes were small, the professors encouraged us to get to know our classmates and I enjoyed the lectures and even the research papers because they were interesting and informative. I love this school, I love the fact that I can attend both the Bronx and Manhattan campus during a semester, I like the fact that because they provide trimesters so I don't have to take classes till midnight. I've been at Mercy for two years now and I have never received a grade lower than a B, I have a 3.3 GPA and I have worked hard for it. At Mercy hard work pays off, I actually enjoy my classes and I look forward to the discussions. Mercy College is the exact environment I needed to grow mentally and emotionally, which I have.

Monica

The advice I would give myself knowing what I know now is, value education and the quality of life it can bring, stay focused. Don't only think about YOU, think about everything around you and how all these things affect the environment you're in. Work towards progress, stay positive, don't be afraid to ask questions or ask for help and, offer something in return. Do research on different careers so you know what to major in. Prepare yourself to be ready. Research schools offering majors of interest. Don't let your peers pressure you into thinking their definition of cool is the only definition. Don't follow, don't lead... just be the best you can be and walk along side of your brothers and sisters. Reach back to where you came from and help another along the way. Get to know someone older, someone younger and appreciate what they bring to the conversation. Appreciate differences, give back to your community, love Mother Earth and share what you know with others. GET A MENTOR... several, if possible.

Avory

knowing what i so far know, i would tell myself to try not to get caught up in so much drama. the drama is so much distaction and very stressful. if i a problem with the reading never be afraid to ask the professors and friends. College life is not as fun as you see on tv. it can only be fun if i allow myself to do all my work as soon as possible. College my may be scary at first because you dont kow anyone. Not everyone who goes to school on the first day and will know everyone. So dont feel discouraged.

margaret

I would tell myself to attend the professor's office hours and study sessions. I would tell myself that sometimes it's okay to eat lunch alone. I would tell myself that I should join extracurricular activities, but not to the point of interfering with my studies. I would tell myself that Facebook and final weeks never belong in the same sentence. I would tell myself to attend every class, even if the professor does not take attendance and the class is at 8 am. I would tell myself to make as many friends as possible. I would tell myself to attend at least one game of every sport. I would tell myself to find a job as soon as I arrive on campus. I would tell myself to form a connection with my professors, rather than just being a student ID number. But most importantly, I would tell myself that it is okay to make mistakes in college, as long as I learn from those mistakes.

Kenneth

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would definitely tell myself to work even harder because college life is far more rigorous. I would also tell myself that the transition between high school and college is a very large one. You must mature and realize there is no time for playing around and messing up once in college. Eventhough you get alot of freedom, it doesn't mean go crazy and fail your classes, because you'll only be hurting yourself. College professors aren't like high school teachers, they treat you like the adult you are suppose to be and let you take responsibility for your own actions. They do not give you as much leeway as a high school teacher would. If you fail, you fail; it's your responsibility to make sure you don't. And last but not least I would tell myself not to stress and to have fun when appropiate and in free time.

Lauren

To my High School Senior-Self-- Congratulations, you alpha dog! No longer are you the innocent pushee, slamming into lockers--you are now the pusher! As you may know, over the next few months, an incredible transition is about to take place. And while you may not be able to see past the tower of homework, college applications, and AP-test study guides, I have written to inform you of what to do. Simply take the opportunities as they come. Do not, I repeat, do not be afraid. You will be approached to speak in front of 700 of your closest friends. You will, contrary to popular belief, go to college. You will meet some people you truly love, and some, well, maybe not so much. You will be invited to explore a brand new city. You will discover how to make a cake without measuring cups. You will really learn the value of patience and persistence. And, in the end, the roller coaster of life will seem that much more thrilling if you just take the opportunties one by one. Signed, Yours of the Future, Lauren E. P.S. Don't stutter on stage.

kamal

Be sure to visitall the schools you interested in to go. Stay away from schools in the South. Appreciate the things and people that you have at home. You do not know how good you have it until you are away from home.

Susan

Learn how to schedule your time better and plan for money matters.

BYRON

I WOULD TELL THEM MAKE SURE YOU DO A BACKGROUND IN THE SCHOOL. CHOOSING THE RIGHT SCHOOL IS VERY IMPORTANT. THEREFORE THE PARENTS SHOULD CHECK OUT THE SCHOOL WITH THE STUDENT. SEE HOW ADMINISTRATION IS AND IF ITS A GOOD COLLEGE FOR THEIR CHILD.

Jamie

Go in with determination, strive to be the best you can and do not let anyone hold you back!

Jeff

Please make sure that you or your child knows what they want to get out of college before going/sending them there. Make sure to choose one that is academically stimulating and relative to one's apititude.

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James

The best advice I can give is if you don't know what you want to do with your life, go to a school that will help you find the answer.

Soyette

It is very important to do alot of research on the colleges of choice. Visiting a campus and having a hands-on experience with the students and facilty will help a student to pick a college. In addition, parents should visit the campuses and determine whether the enviroment is safe for their child. And both parent and student should determine whether the financial aid and academic scholarships are financially effective.

shaindy

Many students do not realize the importance of a college that offers academic and social programs, and they end up missing out on their most important years. I would advise students to look for a college that would be best for them. Searching for a college that meets that criteria can take a lot of time. But in order to gain the most from the college years, students should look for a college that will satisfy them academically and socially. Once a student enrolls in a college, he/she should try to make the most of his college experience, by participating in both: the social and academic aspects of the school. A student should not spend all of his time on school work and ignore social events, or spend his/her time on social events and ignore schoolwork. Both aspects, with the right balance, are needed to allow the student to make the most of his/her college experience.

Lori

To Parents: I think it is very important to allow your child to research and apply to schools that they are interested in. Pushing a child one-way or the other, could result in an expensive mistake! Do the research with your child, give input and offer to visit colleges they are interested in. To Students: Find what you want in a school, but don't skim over any details. Wherever you go will be your home for as long as you stay there. Make sure to check out extra-curricular courses, as well as sports teams and available after school activities. Also check the variety of courses, because it provides the student with the ability to change their major, or pick up an unrelated minor. The best way to get real information about a school is to speak to the alumni, because most of them are going to be honest. Check out the websites of schools that you are interested in. Majority of them offer a way to contact alumni. Once you get there, be social, ask questions and find your niche. Having a good support group of friends is crucial in adjusting to your new world. Good Luck!

Hasheem

Do the research Parents and students as welll. Visit the campus more than once. Let your child develop at least 2 ways of commute if he/she will be commuting. Make friends with at least one upper class-man, Advisor and one professor that you might bee seeing alot of during your course of study.

Kenny

dont listen to your parents choices

Erin

Start early. Visit every college you are interested in. Ask questions. If you are undecided, it's okay. Take your time and make the right decision for you. Do not rely on anyone else to make your decision. This can affect the rest of your life.

Dana

My advice to parents and students about finding the "right" college, is it is not a simple answer. It could be a trial by error case for you. I would say do not settle where you are not happy, make the most out of your college experience, you only live it once. I would also give advice to not rush into a major. Every school has specific course requirments they want you to take, so in the process of declaring a major take the necessary classes then your sophmore or junior year figure out your path. Most importantly my best advice is to enjoy every second of it, I know i have so far!

Christian

study when you have to, rest when you can, and party when you get the chance.

Sewella

Make sure that your kids study really hard and not to give up and also make sure that you have all your financial aid records so just incase they mess up you have proof and make sure that they apply for scholorships it helps